Canadian Synth-rockers THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE are back for a fourth round with PINS & NEEDLES (out September 14th via Metropolis Records). Finding just the right balance between the heavy rock guitars and keyboard-driven grooves, if the band had emerged in the late 80’s to mid-90’s, they’d likely have been lumped somewhere into the vast “industrial” realm.
Instead, THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE was first revealed just over a decade ago, and has evolved into a force that creates a vivid soundscape that sounds ahead of it’s time, yet comfortingly (and hauntingly) familiar.
Amidst the dark imagery of a twisted fairytale that comprises the album artwork and the first video from the album – “In the Dark” (co-helmed by RUE MORGUE magazine founder Rodrigo Gudino and TBM’s Mike Falcore), there’s a sinister beauty that is present throughout the 11-song set.
While the album opener (the aforementioned “In the Dark”) hits hard with it’s beefy guitars and floating choruses, the track is soon eclipsed by nearly everything that follows. “Always,” “Pale,” and “Control” are perfect dark-pop songs.
“Shallow Grave” marks the high point of the album, with TBM falling into their element with a track that will likely become known as one of their signature songs. Firing on all cylinders, every aspect of the band’s sound reaches perfection here.
As PINS & NEEDLES continues, it’s hard not to hear a bit of early MADONNA in CHIBI’s voice – another tip of the hat to the 1980’s, firmly injected into what is certainly a talent to watch.
Not to spend their load completely in the first half of the album, both “Two Hearts” and “Sleepwalking” find themselves tucked safely near the back of the album, ready to assault you with their guitar blasts, and get your ass moving to the danceable groove as well.
When a band moves beyond the standard guitar/bass/drums configuration, there can be a tendency for the mix to get out of whack, and fortunately you won’t find any of that here. The entire album is well-produced, and the entire band is given ample space to shine.
If the kids in THE BREAKFAST CLUB had been pulled into the dark side, their soundtrack would be THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
